About dipyridamole

In the blood are sticky cells called platelets. When you cut yourself, the platelets stick to each other (clot) to seal the wound. Dipyridamole reduces the stickiness of these platelets, therefore thinning the blood slightly and helping to prevent unwanted blood clots from forming within the body.

Dipyridamole is particularly useful for people who have had surgery to replace a heart valve as it allows the blood to move around the body and through the new valves more easily.

Dipyridamole is also used for people who have previously had certain types of strokes or suffer from transient ischaemic attacks (where the blood vessels in the brain become narrow, temporarily cutting off the blood supply).

Dipyridamole may also be used alongside low doses of aspirin which is another antiplatelet medicine used to help reduce the stickiness of the platelets in the blood.

Before taking dipyridamole

Before taking dipyridamole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from angina, or any other heart condition or circulation problem.
• If you have low blood pressure.
• If you have migraines.
• If you have any bleeding problems.
• If you have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines. This is particularly important if you are taking anticoagulants such as warfarin, phenindione or acenocoumarol.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take dipyridamole

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take dipyridamole exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you are taking the modified release capsules, swallow them whole (not chewed or crushed) with a glass of water. Take them with or immediately after food.
• If you are taking the tablets, take your doses half to one hour before food.
• Try to take dipyridamole at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Important: do not take extra aspirin or any other medicines that thin your blood whilst you are taking dipyridamole unless your doctor tells you to. Many medicines that you can buy without a prescription for pain or cold relief contain aspirin, so check with a pharmacist before you buy any medicines.
• Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time as dipyridamole. If you need to take an indigestion remedy, leave at least one hour before, or one hour after your dose of dipyridamole.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment you are taking dipyridamole.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be checked.

Can dipyridamole cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you experience any chest pain, difficulty breathing or swelling of your face, mouth or throat, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store dipyridamole

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• If you have been supplied the modified release capsules, they should be kept in the original container until needed. Once the container has been opened the capsules must only be used for up to 6 weeks. Even if there are any remaining after this time, get a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines